In honor of Valentine’s Day I wanted to offer some sweet treats to all my readers.

Yes, I know, Valentine’s Day is often called a "Hallmark holiday" but I didn't buy anything from Hallmark so that critique doesn't really apply to me.

And Valentine's Day doesn't have to revolve solely around ROMANTIC LOVE...

Every human being, young or old, coupled or uncoupled, big or small, needs and craves LOVE.

I firmly believe that radical self LOVE will be the thing that leads us to deeper healing, more joy, and less suffering.

So in honor of this mushy Hallmark holiday I wanted to show YOU some LOVE by sharing some LOVE promoting resources!

Click on the RED SECTIONS below for direct links to videos, books, and recordings:

The documentary EMBRACE. I LOVE that this movie includes a variety of ways women have had to overcome shame about their bodies, going beyond the conversation about weight/size. It also digs into why and how these beauty/body narratives have so much dang power. Watch it for FREE on Netflix or if you don't have time to sit down for the whole thing at least watch the trailer HERE

"The Body is Not an Apology"is a paradigm shifting book, and the audible version is especially good! This book clearly defines what the 'woo woo' idea of body LOVE is all about. It's not all bikini selfies or positive affirmations... it's probably neither of those things for most people. Radical self LOVE is possible for anyone starting TODAY, going far beyond the mainstream "body positivity" movement. For an extra treat tune into the author, Sonya Renee Taylor, sharing her wisdom in this interview with Christy Harrison.

The Dear Sugars podcast asked two women I LOVE, Hilary Kinavey and Dana Sturtevant of Portland's Be Nourished, to discuss how tragically common body shame is and how the lure to diet/lose weight can grab hold of even the most feminist and empowered women. Trusting our body is not a unrealistic dream, body trust is our birthright. I highly recommend!

What is 'self compassion' and how can it help me heal my negative body image and practice Intuitive Eating? And how is self compassion different than self care? In this podcast episode Summer Innanen interviews THE premiere voice on self compassion, Kristin Neff. If you want to dig a bit deeper there is a workbook that can help take these big concepts into tangible and actionable changes in your life.

Brene Brown's Ted Talks about vulnerability and shame are fantastic. I cannot overstate how much I LOVE Brene Brown's work. Her explanation of what shame is, why it's so damaging, and how vulnerability is the antidote, have completely changed my life. In addition ANY of Brene's books are solid gold, but her classic "The Gifts of Imperfection" is a great starting point.

As always, please don't hesitate to reply directly to me. I can't wait to hear which of these resources helped you LOVE yourself a bit more. XOXO, Linda